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Next Generation Sequencing

A type of laboratory test method that rapidly sequences large amounts of DNA; sequencing determines the order of DNA building blocks (nucleotides) in a person's genetic code. Changes in the building blocks (mutations) in the regions of DNA that are responsible for making proteins can lead to genetic disorders. Next-gen sequencing can look for mutations in any of the protein-producing regions of DNA, instead of looking for just a few specific mutations. In healthcare, this method may be used to help identify inherited or acquired genetic diseases (e.g., cancers), especially those caused by less common mutations.